NCAA Doubles Down on Age Rule, Ignoring Lawsuits

The NCAA Division I Board of Directors has reaffirmed its commitment to the new age-based eligibility rule, even as student-athletes pursue legal action to extend their college careers. The rule, recently approved by the Division I Cabinet, limits athletes to five seasons of competition within a five-year period. This measure effectively eliminates most waiver requests for extended eligibility, with exceptions for religious missions, pregnancy, or active-duty military service; injuries will no longer qualify.

Despite multiple lawsuits filed nationwide, some reportedly with coaching encouragement, the board stated it has no plans to alter the rule's application. Athletes whose eligibility would have expired by spring 2026 under the previous model will not receive a fifth year of competition under the new rules, which take effect this fall. Preliminary injunctions have been granted in some cases, allowing affected players to transfer.

Concerns have been raised by conference officials regarding the rule's implementation and lack of supporting data. SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey indicated the conference supported the rule partly due to the potential for federal legislation to address broader eligibility issues. He noted the rule's rapid adoption stemmed from a desire for solutions to perceived problems with waiver overuse and eligibility controversies.